Now that we’ve entered the coldest months of the year, you might be finding it difficult to stay warm here in Oklahoma. You shouldn’t have any problems behind the wheel of your RAM 1500 pickup truck, though. To maximize your comfort this winter, however, we’ve got some great interior heating and vent tips for you to take advantage of each time you hit the road in your truck. Following these will ensure that you and any passengers you bring along enjoy your experience on the road even in the harsh conditions of winter, keeping your cabin cozy and comfortable.
Understanding Your RAM 1500 Heating System
Before we dive into some real tips and steps to maximize your warmth, it’s important that you understand the different options available to you. So, we thought we’d start by actually explaining a couple features of the heating system in your RAM 1500. Availability will naturally vary from model to model, but the information included here should generally apply to most modern models built over the last several years.
- Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control
- This feature allows you and your front passenger to set individual temperature preferences.
- Heated seating & steering
- Depending on your model, you may have heated front seating, rear seating and perhaps even a heated steering wheel.
Pre-Condition Your Cabin
The number one tip for ensuring comfort in your RAM 1500 throughout the winter months is to pre-condition your cabin. Thanks to the remote start capability available in some models, you’ll be able to start the engine and therefore activate the heating system from inside your home. Just make sure when you shut your vehicle off for the last time in a day that you have the climate settings where you’re going to want them the next morning.
Depending on your model, you might also have access to the RAM app, which gives you even greater control over your cabin. You can use the app to start your vehicle with your smartphone from virtually anywhere, and you can even change climate control settings from the device as well!
Optimize Airflow with Vent Adjustments
Even if you pre-condition your cabin, if you don’t have your vents open or pointed properly you won’t be maximizing your comfort during the winter. Here are a few specific tips on how to optimize the flow of heat through your truck with some vent adjustments:
- Direct all of the vents toward you, then angle them slightly upward to circulate warm air evenly.
- Heat rises, so make sure that your climate controls are sending airflow through the floor vents.
- If you have rear passengers, make sure the rear vents are open and unobstructed as well so that the whole crew can remain comfortable on the road.
Defrosting & Dehumidifying
Foggy windows – especially the windshield – is a huge hindrance to safe and comfortable driving in the winter. Make sure to use your truck’s defrosters to keep the windows clear. If it doesn’t seem to be working well or quickly enough, turn on A/C mode! While it might seem counterintuitive, running your truck’s air conditioning system can actually help remove moisture from the air, preventing that fog buildup throughout your cabin.
Heated Seats & Steering Wheel
Lastly, if you have heated seating and/or a heated steering wheel, make sure to use them! These things are usually triggered with a button, right on the steering wheel somewhere for that option and most likely somewhere in the center console for the seating options. For the rear seats, if they have heat as well there should be controls in their own center console system between the two front seats.
If you have any questions about your RAM 1500, don’t hesitate to reach out to us right here at Jim Glover CDJRF. We’d be happy to help. Good luck staying warm this winter!